Titanium Dioxide is a popular food additive that is used for adding colour to food products during the manufacturing process. From candies and baked goodies to sauces and even soups, a lot of food products use this compound. However, now Oman has banned the production of food products that contain Titanium Dioxide, which is also known as E171. Not only this, it includes the import and marketing of such products as well. Here is more about this.
Titanium Dioxide Banned In Food Products In Oman
According to a new report by Khaleej Times, it was revealed that the Royal Sultanate of Oman has banned Titanium Dioxide. Yes, they have banned not just the production, but even the import and marketing of food products that contain Titanium Dioxide. This comes after the Food Safety & Quality Centre of Oman explained the purpose of the compound. It is used as a colouring substance to add a white colour to some food products, such as tahini, chewing gum, or even candies. Moreover, the report stated that the authorities will also charge a fine for violators with OMR1000. Not to mention, the authorities have also urged residents and citizens to read the labels of products where the mention of this compound can be found as an additive.
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Why Has It Been Banned?
Not long ago, there had been talks about the European Union banning this common food colouring additive as well. This especially comes after the scientific opinion from the European Food Safety Authority in 2021 revealed that Titanium Dioxide is not considered safe anymore as a food additive, according to a report by Regulatory Affairs Professional Society. In case you weren’t aware, this is a naturally occurring dioxide of titanium. From baked goods to sandwich spreads and sauces, it’s used in a variety of food products during the manufacturing process. Although it’s worth stating that this additive is regarded to be safe by several regulatory bodies worldwide.
So, make sure to read the ingredient contents the next time you go to the grocery store to buy something that might have used this additive for its white colour.
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First Published: July 24, 2023 1:56 PM